Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
Why in News?
Recently, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee not nominating even a minister to receive President Droupadi Murmu is unusual.
- Bluebook - The Blue Book defines all arrangements necessary for the visits of the dignitaries.
- Prepared by - It is prepared and updated time-to-time by the Union Home Ministry and numbered (every copy has a number) copies are circulated to those concerned.
- Maintained by - At the ground level, in every district the book is kept in the custody of the District Magistrate and the head of the district police.
- Included Dignitaries - President, Vice-President and Prime Minister.
- The protocol suggests that all these 3 dignitaries visiting a state should be welcomed by the Governor and the Chief Minister.
- However, on a number of occasions, the Chief Minister designates one of the ministers to receive them.
- The Blue Book provisions are very strict and even a minor deviation opens inquiries at many levels.
- Advance Approval - A "Line-up" (list of people allowed to meet or receive the President) must be sent to the President's Secretariat and approved weeks in advance.
Quick Facts
- Article 356 (1) - If the President receives a report from a Governor (or is otherwise convinced) that a State Government is failing to function according to the Constitution, the President can issue a Proclamation to:
- Take Control - Assume all or any functions of the State Government.
- Suspend Authority - Transfer the powers of the State Legislature to the Parliament.
- Dismiss the Executive - Dismiss the State Council of Ministers (led by the Chief Minister).
Reference
The Indian Express | Protocol for President’s visit
